Flexible silicone cable system integrated with snap washer

ABSTRACT

The present invention is comprised of a system and method to fabricate custom shaped flat silicone encased cable assemblies. The cable assemblies can include various numbers and types of multiple individual flexible systems for example communication cables, optic fibers, junction devices, tubing and electrical conductors arranged into a shaped grouping. The custom shaping allows for very precise cable routing. The silicone encasement maintains the custom shape and provides protection against contamination. The result is a single silicone encased flexible shaped cable for use in efficient space saving installations in the cable routing space available in a device or series of devices and can be customized for a wide range of applications.

RELATED CASES

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 12/119,199, filed on May 12, 2008 by Lind et al., and entitled“CABLE ASSEMBLY”.

BACKGROUND

Many applications and devices require multiple communication cables,optic fibers, junction devices, tubes or flexible piping, electricalconductors and/or other groupings of flexible transmitting, receiving orconveyance systems methods generally which require individualinstallations of the runs. The cables and other systems can becometangled. The cables and other systems may be damaged by excessiveabrasive movement, kinking or contaminated from exposure to internal andoutside contaminates. Initial installations and subsequent maintenancecan become difficult to separately pull or extract these systems throughthe space available.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows a block diagram of an overview of a method for processing asingle silicone encased flexible shaped multiple systems cable of oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 shows a block diagram of an example of the flexible siliconesystems shaped encasement process of one embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 3A shows an illustration of an example of the space occupied forround cable installations of one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3B shows an illustration of an example of the reduced spaceoccupied for installations of flexible silicone systems encasements inflat shaped cables of one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3C shows an illustration of an example of flexible silicone systemsin a flat shaped cable encasement of one embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 3D shows an illustration of an example of a hybrid flexiblesilicone systems encasements in round shaped cable of one embodiment ofthe present invention.

FIG. 4A shows an illustration of an example of cable pods in a flatcable of one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4B shows an illustration of an example of multiple cables and tubesin split flat cable of one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4C shows an illustration of an example of a mixed flexible flatcable routed over obstacle of one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4D shows an illustration of an example of a hybrid round flexiblecable of one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 shows an illustration of an example of a flexible siliconeencased shaped cable of gas and fluid tubes of one embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 6A shows an illustration of an example of flat flexible cable usedin a hearing aid device of one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6B shows an illustration of an example of flat flexible cable useswith a hearing aid worn on a human ear of one embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 7A shows an illustration of an example of a custom flexible cableinstallation of one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7B shows an illustration of an example of inserting flexible cablesinto terminating fitting of one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7C shows an illustration of an example of a custom flexible cablewith terminating fitting of one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 shows an illustration of an example of flexible silicone shapedcables and flexible junction box assemblies of one embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 9 shows an illustration of an example of a U shaped self supportingencased cable of one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10A shows an illustration of an example of a snap washer beforeassembly of one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10B shows an illustration of an example of a snap washer assembledof one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10C shows an illustration of an example of a snap washer aftercable slit installation of one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10D shows an illustration of an example of a snap washer used forattachment of one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 shows a block diagram of examples silicone encased flexibleshaped cables integrated into garments, wearing apparel and clothing ofone embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In a following description, reference is made to the accompanyingdrawings, which form a part hereof, and in which is shown by way ofillustration a specific example in which the invention may be practiced.It is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized andstructural changes may be made without departing from the scope of thepresent invention.

GENERAL OVERVIEW

It should be noted that the descriptions that follow, for example, interms of cables, conductors and flat shapes are described forillustrative purposes and the underlying flexible silicone systemsshaped encasement technology can apply to any desired similar or mixedgroupings of flexible transmitting, receiving or conveyance systems ofvarying sizes in any desired shape. In one embodiment of the presentinvention, groupings of communications cables and electrical conductorscan be processed into a flat shaped silicone encasement, in anotherembodiment of the present invention, groupings of optic fibers,electrical conductors and tubing conveying a fluid can be processed intoa round shaped silicone encasement.

FIG. 1 shows a block diagram of an overview of a method for processing asingle silicone encased flexible shaped multiple systems cable of oneembodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1 shows an overview of amethod to arrange various numbers and types of multiple individualflexible systems 140 into a singular custom shaped grouping. Thearrangement forms a shape to make more efficient use of availableinstallation routing space within a larger device or series of devices.The present invention provides a method in which the desired efficientarrangement is held in place by encasing the arranged groupings inflexible silicone. The method provides a flexible silicone shapedencasement process 100 to assemble the multiple individual flexiblesystems 140. The process starts when multiple individual flexiblesystems 140 are grouped into the desired arrangement. An initial phasein the flexible silicone shaped encasement process 100 is to insertgrouped individual flexible systems 150 into shaped silicone encasementextrusion equipment 110. The shaped silicone encasement extrusionequipment 110 deposits a mixture of silicone and proprietary additivesaround the grouped arrangement of systems creating an encasement in thedesired shape. The encased grouped individual flexible systems 160continue through a curing process 130 to set and thus maintain thedesired shape. The result is a single encased flexible shaped cable 170in continuous lengths or as assemblies of one embodiment of the presentinvention.

The single cable can now be installed in the routing space for which itwas shaped in lieu of multiple individual installations of the varioustypes of systems through the same space. Multiple individualinstallations can be complicated by tangled individual systems cablesand tubes. The custom shaping allows for very precise cable routingwithout folding, kinking or pinching which can cause damage to theindividual systems and lead to systems failures. For example, stressfrom excessive pulling tension to overcome the friction and pinching dueto tangled, overlapping prior installations can cause stretched orbroken wires. The flexible silicone shaped encasement 120 providesprotection to the individual systems during installation and furtherprotection from contamination after installation for example from airborn dust or water vapor.

An example of an application of the single encased flexible shaped cable170 is use in aerospace and jet aircrafts which create some of the mostdemanding environments for electrical circuitry, characterized by highvibration, shocks and extreme temperatures. Each new generation ofaircraft increases the demands. Features of the single encased flexibleshaped cables address these issues with the highest flexibility, theability to be shaped to fit very tight spaces, low weight, and a verybroad temperature range. In addition the extrusion process used tomanufacture the single encased flexible shaped cables produces aone-piece silicone encapsulation that will not delaminate or degrade dueto vibration or exposure to oils or chemicals.

The use of a single silicone encased flexible shaped cable reducesinstallation time, reduces or prevents damage to individual systemsduring installation and provides protection after installation enablingreliable performance and long life of one embodiment of the presentinvention.

DETAILED OPERATION OF THE INVENTION The Process

FIG. 2 shows a block diagram of an example of the flexible siliconesystems shaped encasement process of one embodiment of the presentinvention. FIG. 2 shows an initial phase in the flexible silicone shapedencasement process 100 which gathers the separate individual flexiblesystems for example communication cables 230, optic fibers 240, tubing260 and electrical conductors 270 to arrange conductors, cables andtubes into a shaped grouping 280. The process continues to insertgrouped conductors, cables and tubes 220 into shaped silicone encasementextrusion equipment 110. Also, strengthening members, such as ballisticmaterials and metallic wires can be added to the cable.

The shaped silicone encasement extrusion equipment 110 deposits siliconerubbers 200 mixed with proprietary additives 210 around the groupedconductors, cables and tubes creating a flexible silicone shapedencasement 120 in the desired shape. The shaped silicone encasementextrusion equipment 110 can be configured to create flexible siliconejunction devices 250 along the length of the encasement for extensionsor branch circuits. The encased group continues through a curing process130 to set and thus maintain the desired shape. The result is a singlesilicone encased flexible shaped cable 170 of one embodiment of thepresent invention.

Systems Included:

The flexible silicone shaped encasement process 100 can include forexample pneumatic tubing, multiple twisted conductors, shieldedconductors, single conductor, optic fibers and coax. Where fluids orpneumatics are desired for an application, these systems for example canbe integrated with electrical wiring in one compact cable, versus usingmultiple cables, tubes and wires. Hollow tubing for example PFA, PVC,PTFE, or Tygon of varying diameters, wall thicknesses, and innerdiameter openings, can be combined with electrical conductors in theflexible silicone shaped encasement, thereby enabling all manner ofliquids and gases to flow through the same flexible silicone shapedcable as electrical signals of one embodiment of the present invention.

The flexible silicone shaped encasement process 100 allows preciselycontrolling the spacing of component systems such as wires and conduit,the insulation thickness, and the overall cable shape. The control ofthe insulation thickness allows inclusion of single, twisted or otherconductor wire gauges for example from 4 to 44 AWG. The flexiblesilicone encapsulation provides extreme flexibility for motionapplications. The silicone encased flexible shaped cables can seamlesslybe attached to, for example, fixed and moving structural components andcan be used for carrying electrical signals, light signals, pneumatics,and fluids exactly where they are desired for use in the application.Combining each of the systems into one cable results in a cleaner, morecompact design, which can ultimately be more reliable andcost-effective. The extrusion process can produce silicone encasedflexible shaped cables in continuous lengths or as assemblies, completewith connectors and junction boxes, then tested and inspected for aspecific application. This capability provides the ability forcustomizing cables to be shaped to fit very tight spaces of oneembodiment of the present invention.

Proprietary Additives:

The mixture of silicone rubber 200 with proprietary additives 210 allowsadaptation of the silicone encased flexible shaped cables to numerousapplications. Various proprietary additives 210 can be mixed with thesilicone rubber 200 prior to extrusion, in controlled amounts, thatcreate functional advantages to the silicone encased flexible shapedcables. These proprietary additives 210 can include for example elementsto modify the hardness of the cable encasement to increase or decreaseflexibility, and to, creating different functional characteristics fordifferent purposes. For example, harder cable encasements will lastlonger in abrasive environments, and softer cable encasements will havemore flexibility. In addition, softer cable encasements can be used as asealing mechanism in an assembly. The softer cable encasement can itselfbe, for example, compressed between two mating surfaces and the siliconeencasement of the cable creates a seal between the surfaces of oneembodiment of the present invention. Yet another example is the additionof graphite or other conductive materials, thereby making the siliconeencapsulation electrically conductive.

Controllable Adaptive Characteristics:

The adaptive characteristics of the controllable mixture of siliconerubber 200 with proprietary additives 210 allows processing of siliconeencased flexible shaped cables that can be for example used in a singleaxis design that may be ganged for 1, 2 or 3 axes of servo motion. Thesilicone encapsulation provides a solid, one-piece construction thatcreates a highly durable cable package. The cable will not deform, breakor wear during an extended lifetime of use, even under high flexconditions. The adaptive silicone process also delivers advantages inextreme environments, including for example a very broad temperaturerange extending from −65° F. to +260° F. The cables are also imperviousto water, steam and chemicals. The extrusion process used to manufacturethe silicone encased flexible shaped cables produces a one-piecesilicone encapsulation that will not delaminate or degrade due tovibration or exposure to oils or chemicals of one embodiment of thepresent invention.

Applications:

The solid construction makes the cables for example well suited forvacuum or clean rooms environments. The controllable adaptive featuresand characteristics of the custom silicone encased flexible shaped cableassembly process allow tailoring cables for use for example inaerospace, avionics, and robotics applications. The adaptive capabilityof the flexible silicone shaped encasement process 100 is well suited toongoing efforts by various industries to achieve miniaturization andspace efficiency. The custom silicone encased flexible shaped cableassemblies can for example be used in medical diagnostic equipment,motion control robotics, marine electronics and automotive applicationsand are compatible with all electronics connectors, including custom PCBcomponents of one embodiment of the present invention.

Aerospace and Military Jet Aircraft Applications:

The flexible flat silicone cables can be used in subsystems foraerospace and military jet aircraft for applications that includetargeting pods, fuel control systems and missile gimbals and guidancesystems. This is because aerospace and jet aircrafts have always createdsome of the most demanding environments for electrical circuitry,characterized by high vibration, shocks and extreme temperatures. Eachnew generation of aircraft increases these demands. The silicone encasedflexible shaped cable process can customize the characteristics in thecable assemblies produced to address these issues with high flexibility,the custom shaping to fit very tight spaces, low weight, and broadtemperature ranges. The one-piece silicone encapsulation produced by theextrusion process and resulting lack of delaminating or degrading due tovibration or exposure to oils or chemicals make these silicone encasedflexible shaped cables well suited to the extremes of an aviationenvironment of one embodiment of the present invention.

The reduction from installation stress damage provided by the customshapes and continuing damage prevention provided by the integralsilicone encasement protection contribute to the elimination of signalfailures due to physical stress at the cable connector. The high levelof reliability provided by the flexible silicone shaped encasementprocess 100 of FIG. 1 is extremely desirable for compact avionics andother modular electrical systems. The high level of reliability providedby the flexible silicone shaped encasement process 100 of FIG. 1 isreinforced by inclusion in the process rigorously testing the systemsincluded in each cable including 100% testing for electricalperformance. The process rigorous testing allows the cable assemblies tomeet industry quality standards for example ISO 9001 and AS 9100Aerospace standards of one embodiment of the present invention.

Miniature Silicone Cables for Medical Applications:

The custom silicone encased flexible shaped cable assemblies can forexample be used in medical and other compact electronics includingsophisticated devices such as infusion pumps, auto-injection systems,and advanced surgical instruments. For example in these applications tobe re-used, the device has a prerequisite to withstand the rigors ofautoclaving, alcohol washes, chlorine bleach baths, and othersterilization procedures. Where bodily contact is a factorhypoallergenic materials are to be used, and all wires or probes must besoft to the touch. The customized silicone encased flexible shaped cableassemblies meet all these requirements. The cable assemblies are made ofinert, hypoallergenic grade silicone and are compatible with all medicalconnectors. The cable assemblies can easily withstand temperatureextremes and chemical sterilization without becoming brittle ordegrading. The silicone mixtures used can be controlled to be extremelyflexible and soft to the touch, allowing the cables to be used in directcontact with the human body. In addition, the customized siliconeencased flexible shaped cable assemblies can be provided in FDA approvedversions, for human implant applications.

Shipboard and Marine Applications:

Silicone encased flexible shaped cables deliver extreme flexibility andexceptional environmental protection, including superior waterresistance. Inherent water repellent characteristics make siliconeencased flexible shaped cables impervious to immersion, high humidity,fungus, and damp operating environments, making them ideal for washdown, autoclave, and other wet applications. Conversely, extremely dryconditions or low humidity will not affect the cable's flexibility orlife. In addition, these cables are highly resistant to the corrosiveeffects of salt spray or seawater exposure, meeting all applicablespecifications for shipboard use and marine environments. The flexiblesilicone shaped encasement process 100 produces space saving low weightcables of the highest flexibility and reduces the complexity of currentcabling installations of one embodiment of the present invention.

Cable Space Reduction:

FIG. 3A shows an illustration of an example of the space used for roundcable installations of one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3Ashows an illustration of an example of the space occupied for four roundcables 300. Round flex cables feature insulated wires in a bundle whichis surrounded by several layers of other material. Packing density offlat cable is higher than is possible with round cables. The round shapeof the adjacent cables causes space to be unused due to the opposingcurved surfaces of one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3B shows an illustration of an example of the reduced spaceoccupied for installations of flexible silicone systems encasements inflat shaped cables of one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3Ashows an illustration of an example of the use of flat cables such asthe silicone encased flexible shaped cables which when placed adjacenton the flat surfaces produces reduced space to place four flat cables310. This reduction in space requirement can be a significant benefitfor cable installations in applications involving complex orminiaturized devices of one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3C shows an illustration of an example of flexible silicone systemsin a flat shaped cable encasement of one embodiment of the presentinvention. The illustration of an example of a flat silicone encasedflexible shaped cable in FIG. 3C includes communication cables 230,optic fibers 240 and tubes 330 in a flexible silicone shaped encasement120 to form a flat shaped cable 320. Also, each of these sections, suchas optic fibers 230, can be split off from other sections by creating anindent between each separate individual section during manufacturing.

The flat flexible silicone shaped cables make more efficient use ofinsulating material. These flat cables need no low-friction tapes andfillers because conductors don't move within the silicone material thatforms the outer jacket. And when bent in the plane of its thin crosssection, these flat cables have inherently more flexibility than roundcable. The flat form factor of cables also provides better heatdissipation than round cables because there is more surface area for agiven volume. The larger surface area lets flat cables carry a highercurrent level for a given temperature rise and for conductors of a givencross section. Conductors in flat cable also have a fixed geometry thatmakes for consistent and non-varying electrical qualities. The spacingof conductors in the extruded silicone never changes as the cable moves.Thus cable impedance, inductance, capacitance, time delay, crosstalk,and attenuation all remain constant. Also, the conductors in the cableall have the same physical and electrical length. This physicalrelationship, coupled with the fact that the dielectric dimensions stayconstant, means that signal skewing and differential time delays betweensignals in the cable stay at a minimum. Flexible silicone systemsencased flat shaped cables inherently form a high-density interconnectsystem. The fact that conductors can be visible through the clearsilicone extrusion simplifies coding, inspection, and tracing circuitsfor trouble shooting of one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3D shows an illustration of an example of a hybrid flexiblesilicone systems encasements in round shaped cable of one embodiment ofthe present invention. While multiple round cables occupy more spacethan flat cables the flexible silicone shaped encasement process 100 ofFIG. 1 allows multiple round cables and tubes to be grouped together andencased to form a single round cable, thus reducing the space normallylost for use using multiple round cables. Shown in the illustration ofFIG. 3D is an example of a flexible silicone systems encasement forminga round shaped hybrid cable 340. The round shaped hybrid cable 340groups communication cables 230, tubing 260 and electrical conductors270 in a single flexible silicone shaped encasement 120. This adaptationallows efficient use of space where a round shape is desired or fits thespace available for the cable installation of one embodiment of thepresent invention.

Examples of Various Silicone Encased Flexible Shaped CableConfigurations:

The profile of silicone encased flexible shaped cables is in partdetermined by the space available for the installation of the finishedcable and the component systems to be grouped within the cable. Theoutside profile of the cable, including the positioning of the cableelements, and the thickness of the silicone jacketing, can be preciselycontrolled. This allows the creation of separate cable ‘pods’ orsections within the overall cable, which can be split off or peeled awayfrom the main cable, as desired for wire routing purposes. Shown forillustrative purposes only in FIGS. 4A, 4B, 4C and 4D are differentprofiles of examples silicone encased flexible shaped cables of oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4A shows an illustration of an example of cable pods in a flatcable of one embodiment of the present invention. The illustrativeexample shown in FIG. 4A includes three cable pods of five cables eachin a flat cable 400 of one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4B shows an illustration of an example of multiple cables and tubesin split flat cable of one embodiment of the present invention. Theillustrative example shown in FIG. 4B includes multiple cables and tubesin a flat cable 410 that can be split into branch runs along theconnecting silicone material between the cables and tubes of oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4C shows an illustration of an example of a mixed flexible flatcable routed over an obstacle of one embodiment of the presentinvention. The illustrative example shown in FIG. 4C includes a mixtureof various sized tubes and cables encased in a soft highly flexiblesilicone encasement. The flexibility of the cable is demonstrated byshowing the mixed flexible flat cable 420 being routed over an obstacle430 in the device cable route of one embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 4D shows an illustration of an example of a hybrid round flexiblecable of one embodiment of the present invention. The illustrativeexample shown in FIG. 4D shows a hybrid round flexible cable 440 shownflexing in both a horizontal and vertical plane along a device cableroute of one embodiment of the present invention.

Shaped Cable of Gas and Fluid Tubes:

FIG. 5 shows an illustration of an example of a flexible siliconeencased shaped cable of gas and fluid tubes of one embodiment of thepresent invention. The flexible silicone shaped encasement process 100of FIG. 1 can be used to produce a flexible silicone shaped encasement120 of groups of hollow tubes. FIG. 5 illustrates an example of aflexible silicone shaped cable of gas tubes 510 and fluid tubes 520configured into a flexible flat cable thereby enabling all manner ofliquids and gases to flow through the same flexible cable grouping ofone embodiment of the present invention.

Hearing Aid with Flat Flexible Cabling:

FIG. 6A and FIG. 6B illustrate an example of the use of flexiblesilicone encased shaped cables in a hearing aid application. FIG. 6Ashows an illustration of an example of flat flexible cable uses in ahearing aid device of one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6Ashows an illustration of an example of a hearing aid, flat flexiblecabling 600. A hearing aid device 610 and ear piece 620 use an encasedflexible thin flat shaped cable 630 to connect the component subsystemsof the hearing aid device. The thin flexible flat cable for anadjustable hearing aid device contains finely-braided copper conductorsfor example between 30 AWG and 44 AWG. The base stranding of the wireconductors are finer than 50 AWG, creating a highly flexible conductor.The device holds the number of conductors desired for the operation, forexample from 2 conductors up to 10 conductors. The conductors providepower and audio signals to and from the ear speaker amplifying device,and the sound capture, sound-producing and power unit of one embodimentof the present invention.

FIG. 6B shows an illustration of an example of flat flexible cable useswith a hearing aid worn on a human ear of one embodiment of the presentinvention. The illustrative example of the hearing aid, flat flexiblecabling 600 is shown in FIG. 6B being worn on a human ear 640. Theconductors are copper-colored, so as to be close to normal skin color.They are completely encased in translucent silicone, so the entire cableis not instantly visible against the human skin for example when placedon a human ear 640 of one embodiment of the present invention.

The encased flexible thin flat shaped cable 630 is water and sweatresistant, and it is completely inert, and therefore acceptable for usewith a hearing aid device, in constant contact with human skin and hair.The cable, while flexible, is also strong enough to mechanically holdthe earpiece, and also is strong enough to not break while being pulledto adjust the cable length and the ear piece 620 position to fit aperson's ear. The cable has some friction, which allows the use of afriction-type holding pad system, for adjusting and maintaining thelength of the cable protruding from the hearing aid device 610 unit. Thecable length can be easily adjusted, using minimum force, and the cablewill also stay in its set position, due to the friction between thebrake pad material and the silicone cable of one embodiment of thepresent invention.

Custom Flexible Cable:

FIG. 7A shows an illustration of an example of a custom flexible cableinstallation of one embodiment of the present invention. The exampleflexible cable illustrated in FIG. 7A is made up of groupings ofconductors which constitute cable pods 700. Individual cable pods 700can be separated from the flexible cable by cutting a slit 710 in thesilicone material separating the various cable pods 700. A separatedcable pod 720 can be cut to an appropriate length to allow the separatedcable pod 720 to have the silicone encasement stripped from theconductors 730. The separated cable pod 720 can be split again by way ofa slit 710 in the silicone encasement between conductor cables andstacked to position the conductors for insertion into a cableterminating fitting 740 of one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7B shows an illustration of an example of inserting cables intoterminating fitting of one embodiment of the present invention. Thestacked silicone encased cable sections can be held in place using asilicone stabilizer 750 that bonds the cable sections together. Oneexample as a strap is shown in FIG. 7B for illustrative purposes. Thesilicone stabilizer 750 bonds the flexible silicone shaped encasement120 leaving the conductors 730 that have had the silicone encasementstripped away free to be installed into a cable terminating fitting 740.Inserting stripped conductors into the cable terminating fitting 760allows the cable terminating fitting 740 to be connected of oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7C shows an illustration of an example of a custom flexible cablewith terminating fitting of one embodiment of the present invention.Upon completion of the cable terminating fitting 740 connection theportion of the exposed conductors can be encased 770 with a siliconestress seal 780 to protect against contamination and reduce cablemovement stress. Separation of individual cable pods 700 of FIG. 7A fromthe flexible silicone encased shaped cable assembly for connection to acable terminating fitting 740 at a desired terminating point along thecable routing allows creation of a custom flexible cable to be adaptedafter installation to fit the desired application use of one embodimentof the present invention.

Encapsulated Flexible Junction Boxes:

FIG. 8 shows an illustration of an example of flexible silicone shapedcables and flexible junction box assemblies of one embodiment of thepresent invention. The flexible silicone shaped encasement process 100of FIG. 1 includes the fabrication within the operation of the shapedsilicone encasement extrusion equipment 110 of FIG. 1 of one or moreflexible junction box 800 to be integrated along the length of theflexible silicone encased cable assemblies. The illustrative example ofFIG. 8 shows communication cables 230, electrical conductors 270 andpneumatic tubes 810 in a flexible silicone shaped encasement 120. Thiscable assembly is routed to a flexible junction box 800. Two branchcables are routed from the flexible junction box 800. One branchincludes communication cables 230 and electrical conductors 270 and theother branch communication cables 230 and pneumatic tubes 810. In thisexample the communication cables 230 can be control circuits which openand close valves for the pneumatic tubes 810 and operation of anelectrical device independently or in concert with the flow from thepneumatic tubes 810 of one embodiment of the present invention. Also,strengthening members, such as ballistic materials and metallic wirescan be added to the cable.

Electrical wiring, printed circuit boards and/or microprocessors can beencapsulated in a flexible junction box 800, which can be formed invirtually any shape, to conform to a specific purpose. The material ofthe flexible junction box 800 is a non-conductive, hard, yet flexible,epoxy. It fully contains and protects the electrical elements of theflexible junction box 800, against ingress from water, dirt, salt, andother fluids and gases. The flexible junction box 800 also providesstrain relief protection for the electrical wires and connections. Theflexible junction box 800 is slightly flexible, allowing it to move andbe positioned into place, without cracking or breaking the flexiblejunction box 800. The flexible silicone encased cable assembly includingthe integrated flexible junction boxes with branch cables can be coiledfor delivery and uncoiled for installation of one embodiment of thepresent invention.

U Shaped Self Supporting Encased Cable:

FIG. 9 shows an illustration of an example of a “U” shaped selfsupporting encased cable of one embodiment of the present invention. Theillustration in FIG. 9 shows an example of a “U” shaped self supportingencased cable 900 that includes communication cables 230, electricalconductors 270 and various sizes of tubing 260 held in shape by theflexible silicone shaped encasement 120. The “U” shaped self supportingencased cable 900 is a curved cable shape. The cable shape, when facingit lengthwise, is a modified “U” shape. This shape gives the cableholding strength when the cable itself is unsupported, or in acantilevered position of one embodiment of the present invention.

A flat silicone cable normally would not support itself, but the “U”shaped cable supports itself for a considerable distance, due to the “U”shaped geometry of the cable. This enables the “U” shaped selfsupporting encased cable 900 to be installed without in some instanceshaving to be supported by another means in such an application. The “U”shape can be repeated during extrusion at predetermined lengths toextend the self-supporting features. Additionally, the “U” shaped cabledisplays a parallel form when it is rolling back and forth. The cablemaintains a straight parallel form of the top and the bottom of thecable, during a flexing operation. This is due to the geometry of the“U” shaped cable, as a normal flat cable will ‘bow’ in a circle on therolling end, and the shape will be more round than parallel. Even thoughthe cable is “U” shaped, when it is rolled, it acts like a flat cable,so it can be easily spooled into a roll, and it flexes in the axialorientation as a flexible flat cable does of one embodiment of thepresent invention. When it is spooled, a secondary benefit of the “U”shape is that it easily spools on and off of a circular roll (like atape measure), and the cantilever strengths of the “U” shape only takeeffect once the “U” shaped-cable rolls off of the spool. When on thespool, it behaves the same as a normal flat cable.

Snap Washer:

FIG. 10A shows an illustration of an example of a snap washer beforeassembly of one embodiment of the present invention. Physical attachmentof a flexible silicone systems encased flat shaped cable is desirablealong cable routes for example a vertical section. Physical attachmentcan be accomplished by using a snap washer 1010 and a snap washer base1020 shown before assembly in FIG. 10A of one embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 10B shows an illustration of an example of a snap washer assembledof one embodiment of the present invention. The snap washer base 1020provides a beveled lip at the end of the spacer cylinder used to lockthe snap washer 1010 in place as shown after assembly in FIG. 10B of oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10C shows an illustration of an example of a snap washer aftercable slit installation of one embodiment of the present invention. FIG.10C shows a flexible silicone systems encased flat shaped cable whichhas had a slit 1030 cut along the cable run of a thin flat cable 270.The snap washer base 1020 has been inserted through the slit 1030 in thethin flat cable 270 and the snap washer 1010 snapped into the lockedposition of one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10D shows an illustration of an example of a snap washer used forattachment of one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10D showsthe physical attachment of the thin flat cable 270 using for example ascrew 1040 as an attachment device. The thin flat cable 270 in thisexample includes communication cables 230 and electrical conductors 270.The slit 1030 has been cut along the flexible silicone shaped encasement120 between conductors. The spacer cylinder of the snap washer base 1020has been inserted through the slit 1030 and the snap washer 1010 lock inplace. The screw 1040 is inserted through the spacer cylinder of thesnap washer base 1020 and screwed into the device mounting surface ofone embodiment of the present invention.

Silicone Encased Cables Integrated into Clothing or Other Apparel:

FIG. 11 shows a block diagram of examples of silicone encased flexibleshaped cables integrated into garments, wearing apparel and clothing ofone embodiment of the present invention. The advent of clothing in humandevelopment provided protection against the elements. FIG. 11 showsapparel and clothing 1100 in which silicone encased flexible shapedcables integrated into the garment 1110 will allow increased control ofthe protection against the elements and functionality to the use ofclothing for the wearer of one embodiment of the present invention.

The flexible silicone shaped encasement 120 of FIG. 1 is completelyinert and acceptable for use in contact with human skin, or as part ofclothing. Silicone encased flexible shaped cables are lightweight andflexible, so as not to be cumbersome or heavy when incorporated intoclothing. Silicone encased flexible shaped cables are non-flammable, andthey operate at high temperatures, up to 260 degrees Celsius. Siliconeencased flexible shaped cables are waterproof, and sweat proof,including salt water and human sweat. Incorporating one or more multipleindividual flexible systems 140 of FIG. 1 in numbers of a singlesilicone encased flexible shaped cable 170 of FIG. 1 can enableoperations of various functions to be incorporated safely andcomfortably into the apparel and clothing 1100 of one embodiment of thepresent invention.

Increased control of the protection against the elements for example canbe provided by using the silicone encased flexible shaped cablesintegrated into the garment 1110 to operate cooling systems 1120. Thecooling system to pump coolant through the tubing 260 of FIG. 2throughout the garments to an electrically operated pump, fan andradiator to provide the wearer with relief from the heat, such asmilitary uniforms in desert conditions, fire-fighting garments to reduceexposure to overheating and in work clothing near blast furnaces in thesteel industry and other environments where high temperatures increaseheat stress. Garments can for example be enabled to operate heatingsystems 1130 in cold climates or conditions such as snow cover orcommercial walk-in freezers reducing the need for multiple layers ofbulky cold weather garments and coats which can inhibit agility of oneembodiment of the present invention.

Silicone encased flexible shaped cables carry electrical conductors 270of FIG. 2 and communication cables 230 of FIG. 2 can for example be sewninto apparel to provide circuits to operate GPS locator and transmittersystems 1140 to provide continuous location of critical personnel orhikers going into the wild. Miniaturized silicone encased flexibleshaped cables can for example integrated into apparel to operatesensors, diagnostic or therapeutic equipment 1160 allowing monitoringand treatment of patients that can move about or may have to travel inareas remote from medical treatment. Silicone encased flexible shapedcables integrated into the garment 1110 for example that include opticfibers 240 of FIG. 2 to operate lighting and animation systems 1150 inanimation apparel for theatres, theme parks, where electrical motors andsignals are used to move and animate costumed characters with lightemitting diodes for display. The use of silicone encased flexible shapedcables integrated into the garment 1110 that carry electrical circuits,communication signals and fluids/gases can add functionality to otherapplications to operate other wearer desired systems 1170 of oneembodiment of the present invention. In addition, cloaking devices usedto project images and aid in the concealment of people and equipmentwearing the apparel can be integrated within the apparel.

In yet another embodiment, apparel with motion sensors can beinconspicuously integrated with the apparel through the silicone encasedcabling for live action special effects creation for film andtelevision. For example, infrared motion sensors can be incorporatedinto the silicone encased cabling for use with advanced video, computervision and motion analysis systems for visually capturing precise motionand movement of the wearer of the apparel with the silicone cabling ofthe present invention for green screen/blue screen animation and specialeffects creation.

The foregoing has described the principles, embodiments and modes ofoperation of the present invention. However, the invention should not beconstrued as being limited to the particular embodiments discussed. Theabove described embodiments should be regarded as illustrative ratherthan restrictive, and it should be appreciated that variations may bemade in those embodiments by workers skilled in the art withoutdeparting from the scope of the present invention as defined by thefollowing claims.

1. A method for creating a silicone encased flexible cable usingmanufacturing machinery, comprising: automatically arranging pluralindividual conduits into a grouped arrangement; inserting the groupedarrangement into an extrusion apparatus; depositing a mixture ofsilicone and additives to the grouped arrangement; customizing themixture of silicone and additives to create differing characteristics;using the extrusion apparatus to create a singular encasement and tocure the singular encasement; and integrating a snap washer within thesingular encasement.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the snap washerincludes a beveled lip at an end and a spacer cylinder configured tolock the snap washer in place.
 3. The method of claim 1, wherein themanufacturing machine is configured to form the cable into a selfsupporting encased cable with a curved “U” shape configured to providethe cable with holding strength when the cable itself is unsupported orin a cantilevered position.
 4. The method of claim 1, further comprisingintegrating a flexible junction box to the grouped arrangement.
 5. Themethod of claim 4, wherein the flexible junction box contains at leastone of electronics, a printed circuit board or a microprocessor.
 6. Themethod of claim 1, wherein automatically arranging plural individualconduits into a grouped arrangement further includes using at least onefluid communication conduit for transferring fluid through the cable andat least one electrical conduit for transferring electrical signalsthrough the cable.
 7. The method of claim 6, wherein the fluidcommunication conduit transfers gas through the cable.
 8. The method ofclaim 6, wherein the fluid communication conduit transfers liquidthrough the cable.
 9. The method of claim 6, wherein the plural conduitscomprise at least pneumatic tubing, fluid tubing, gaseous tubing,multiple twisted conductors, shielded conductors, single conductor,fiber optics or coax.
 10. A silicone encased flexible cable, comprising:plural individual conduits configured into a grouped arrangement; anextrusion apparatus configured to receive the grouped arrangement; adeposit device configured to deposit a mixture of silicone and additivesto the grouped arrangement, wherein the mixture of silicone andadditives are customized to create differing characteristics; whereinthe extrusion apparatus is configured to create a singular encasementand to cure the singular encasement; and a snap washer integrated withinthe singular encasement between the plural conduits.
 11. The siliconeencased flexible cable of claim 1, wherein the snap washer includes abeveled lip at an end and a spacer cylinder configured to lock the snapwasher in place.
 12. The silicone encased flexible cable of claim 10,wherein the cable is formed into a self supporting encased cable with acurved “U” shape configured to provide the cable with holding strengthwhen the cable itself is unsupported or in a cantilevered position. 13.The silicone encased flexible cable of claim 10, further comprisingintegrating a flexible junction box to the grouped arrangement.
 14. Thesilicone encased flexible cable of claim 13, wherein the flexiblejunction box contains at least one of electronics, a printed circuitboard or a microprocessor.
 15. The silicone encased flexible cable ofclaim 10, wherein automatically arranging plural individual conduitsinto a grouped arrangement further includes using at least one fluidcommunication conduit for transferring fluid through the cable and atleast one electrical conduit for transferring electrical signals throughthe cable.
 16. The silicone encased flexible cable of claim 15, whereinthe fluid communication conduit transfers gas through the cable.
 17. Thesilicone encased flexible cable of claim 15, wherein the fluidcommunication conduit transfers liquid through the cable.
 18. Thesilicone encased flexible cable of claim 15, wherein the plural conduitscomprise at least pneumatic tubing, fluid tubing, gaseous tubing,multiple twisted conductors, shielded conductors, single conductor,fiber optics or coax.
 19. A silicone encased flexible cable, comprising:means for automatically arranging plural individual conduits into agrouped arrangement; means for inserting the grouped arrangement into anextrusion apparatus; means for depositing a mixture of silicone andadditives to the grouped arrangement; means for customizing the mixtureof silicone and additives to create differing characteristics; means forusing the extrusion apparatus to create a singular encasement and tocure the singular encasement; and a snap washer integrated within thesingular encasement between the plural conduits.
 20. The siliconeencased flexible cable of claim 19, wherein the snap washer includes abeveled lip at an end and a spacer cylinder configured to lock the snapwasher in place.